Along Australia's Illawarra Coast, this active city has 17 surf beaches, a large university campus, and lively bars. The city center has modern cafes and art spaces.
Wollongong, 85 kilometers south of Sydney, stretches between the Pacific Ocean and the Illawarra Escarpment's rainforests. You can swim at North Wollongong Beach, walk through subtropical forests on Mount Keira, or explore the Nan Tien Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. The city's 300,000 residents, including many university students, live within easy reach of both Sydney's urban center and natural walking trails.
Getting Around Wollongong
Take the train from Sydney on the Illawarra line (85 minutes) or drive south on the M1 Princes Motorway. In the city, hop on the free Gong Shuttle that circles through the center every 20 minutes. Bike paths connect the university to the beaches and downtown. You can walk between most central attractions.
Swimming and Surfing Spots
The 17 patrolled beaches along the coast give you different swimming options. North Wollongong Beach has gentle waters and beachfront cafes. Surf the consistent breaks at Sandon Point, or take beginner lessons at Fairy Meadow Beach. Children can splash in the rock pools at Coalcliff and Austinmer beaches.
Mountain Views and Rainforest Walks
Look out over the entire coastline from Sublime Point on clear days. Walk the Mount Keira Ring Track through subtropical rainforest and stop at viewing platforms along the way. At the Illawarra Fly Tree Top Walk, cross suspended walkways 20-30 meters above the forest floor. Join guided tours at Wollongong Botanic Gardens to see the rose garden, succulent collection, and native Australian plants.
Cultural Landmarks
Join meditation sessions at the Nan Tien Temple or walk through its gardens. Watch space shows and try hands-on experiments at the Science Centre and Planetarium. Browse contemporary art exhibitions at Wollongong Art Gallery alongside its collection of Indigenous Australian works. Learn about local coal mining and steel making at the Illawarra Museum, housed in a 19th-century post office building.
Student Life and City Center
Students fill the cafes and shops along Crown Street during university terms. Find small bars and coffee shops in former industrial buildings around Globe Lane. Shop for local crafts and try food truck meals at the Thursday night markets in Crown Street Mall. Attend public lectures and technology exhibitions at the Innovation Campus.
